Innovative studies have identified avocado extract as a promising ally against corrosion, particularly for carbon steel subjected to the aggressive conditions of salty formation water (SFW) found within oil and gas extraction sites. Recent research conducted by M. A. Deyab and Q. Mohsen from Taif University, Saudi Arabia, reveals significant insights about how this natural extract can act as an effective corrosion inhibitor, showcasing potential environmental benefits.
The research highlights the considerable challenges faced by industries reliant on carbon steel submerged in corrosive environments, particularly those due to chlorides present in formation water, which accelerates corrosion. With equipment degradation leading to safety risks and financial losses, identifying reliable and eco-friendly corrosion inhibitors has become increasingly urgent.
Formation water, usually inherent to underground oil and gas reservoirs, is often rich with various salts derived from geological formations. These salts, particularly chloride ions, pose serious threats to metal structures, sparking extensive research efforts. Deyab and Mohsen's work explores the efficacy of using plant extracts—specifically, avocado extract—as corrosion inhibitors due to their organic compounds and lower environmental impact compared to conventional inhibitors.
The study employed rigorous methodologies, utilizing weight loss experiments, Tafel polarization, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to determine the corrosion resistance offered by various concentrations of avocado extract (ranging from 20 to 100 mg L−1). Findings indicated remarkable results, with optimal inhibition efficiency reaching approximately 92.4% at the 100 mg L−1 concentration. This establishes avocado extract not only as effective but also as economically viable for implementation.
Avocado, known for its rich concentration of bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds and fatty acids, plays a key role in forming protective barriers against corrosive agents. The study demonstrates how these compounds adsorb onto the carbon steel surface, creating films which shield the metal from direct contact with corrosive solutions. These protective layers not only mitigate corrosion rates but also possess self-healing capabilities, potentially enhancing their durability.
Further supporting their findings, Deyab and Mohsen examined the thermodynamic properties of corrosion inhibition. It was revealed the addition of avocado extract increases the activation energy of the oxidation reaction from 13.8 kJ mol−1 (in the absence of the extract) to 51.6 kJ mol−1, highlighting the substantial barrier provided by the natural inhibitor. This increase suggests the challenges posed to corrosion processes when the extract is present, underscoring its functional benefits.
While the study's primary focus was on carbon steel reactions in SFW, the researchers stress the significance of these findings on broader applications, paving the way for future investigations on other metal compositions and potentially varying saline conditions. The natural composition of avocado extract aligns with sustainable practices increasingly sought after by industries aiming to minimize ecological footprints.
Concluding their research, Deyab and Mohsen noted, "The study highlights the potential of using natural extracts for enhancing the corrosion resistance of carbon steel in challenging environments like salty formation water." This work not only marks the avocado extract's viability as an eco-friendly corrosion solution but also illuminates the path for future explorations of plant-based inhibitors.
With impending advancements, the significance of natural extracts like avocado is poised to transform industry practices, perhaps heralding the dawn of sustainable corrosion management strategies.